New Year’s resolutions can feel exciting at first, but let’s be honest—they can also be overwhelming. I’ve had my fair share of failed attempts at setting goals, mostly because I went too big, too fast, and without a plan.

But this year, things feel different. I’m training to run a marathon, and instead of jumping in without direction, I’ve broken it down into realistic steps I can actually stick to. Whether your goals are about recovery, fitness, or personal growth, here are five useful tips to help you set goals that last—and see them through.

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1. Keep It Simple

One of the biggest reasons I used to fail at resolutions was trying to do too much at once. I’d set massive, vague goals like “I want to get healthier” or “I’m going to be more productive,” but I never had a plan to get there.

This year, I’ve learned to keep it simple and focus on specific, measurable goals. Instead of saying, “I want to run a marathon,” I set a schedule to run a half marathon in March as a stepping stone.

Simple, clear goals help you stay focused and make it easier to track progress.

Examples of Simple Goals:

• Instead of “I’ll exercise more,” try “I’ll work out three days a week.”
• Instead of “I’ll eat better,” try “I’ll cook homemade meals twice a week.”

Smaller steps build confidence, and confidence builds momentum.

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2. Align Your Goals with Your Values

If your resolutions don’t match what’s most important to you, they’re not going to stick. That’s something I’ve learned in recovery. Setting goals that complement the life I’m trying to build—instead of working against it—has made a huge difference.

For me, my marathon goal is about more than fitness. It’s about discipline, growth, and proving to myself that I can stick with something that challenges me. It’s also a way to continue building on the healthy habits I’ve developed since getting sober.

Examples That Align with Recovery Goals:

• Commit to attending more 12-step meetings or working through another step with your sponsor.
• Focus on mental health by journaling daily or starting a mindfulness routine.
• Incorporate fitness or hobbies that give you purpose and structure.

Make sure your goals support your mental, emotional, and physical well-being and reflect the values you’re building your life around.

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3. Find Accountability

Accountability has been one of the biggest reasons I’ve been able to stick to my goals this year. I’ve told friends and family about my plan to run a marathon, and having their support (and occasional reminders) keeps me motivated.

In recovery, accountability is huge—and the same applies to any other goal. Whether it’s sharing your resolutions with a trusted friend, sponsor, or support group, knowing someone else is cheering you on can make all the difference.

Why Accountability Works:

• It gives you a sense of commitment because someone else knows your goal.
• It provides encouragement when things feel tough.
• It creates a safety net if you start to slip or lose focus.

Whether you’re setting fitness goals, recovery goals, or career goals, having someone in your corner makes the process less isolating and more manageable.

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4. Practice Self-Compassion

Let’s be honest—nobody’s perfect. I’ve missed workouts. I’ve skipped days on my training schedule. And in the past, I’ve been guilty of giving up completely after one setback.

What I’ve learned—especially through recovery—is that progress matters more than perfection. If you fall short of a goal, don’t let it derail everything.

Instead, take a second to reflect and reset:

• What happened?
• What can I change?
• How can I get back on track?

Give yourself grace and keep moving forward. Goals aren’t about being perfect—they’re about being consistent.

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5. Celebrate the Wins—Big and Small

When we set big resolutions, it’s easy to focus so much on the end result that we forget to celebrate the small victories along the way. But those small wins? They matter.

I’m training for a full marathon, but first, I’m running a half marathon in March. That’s a big step toward my goal, and it’s something I plan to celebrate.

Examples of Small Wins to Celebrate:

• Hitting your first week of workouts.
• Journaling every day for a month.
• Attending 10 recovery meetings in a row.
• Trying something new that pushes you out of your comfort zone.

Celebrating progress reminds you how far you’ve come and keeps you motivated for what’s ahead. Whether it’s treating yourself to a favorite meal, taking a day off, or just reflecting on your growth, don’t skip this step.

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